See More
Overview
This safari takes you through Central, Southwestern, Southern, and Rift Valley Kenya. You'll have a chance to visit Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro. The mountain offers stunning views and a variety of landscapes. You'll also have a chance to see the Big Five as you embark on a safari to Maasai Mara.
Hiking notes
Mount Kenya, an extinct volcano and Africa's second-highest peak, presents a formidable challenge and an exhilarating adventure for hikers around the world. With its majestic summit reaching 5,199 meters (17,057 feet), it beckons adventurers to explore its rugged landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
The mountain's equatorial location subjects it to two distinct dry seasons, which are considered the optimal times for hiking: July to August and November to February. The rainy seasons (March to June and September to October) are less ideal, as trails can become muddy and slippery and cloud cover may obscure the views.
As you ascend, temperatures drop significantly, especially at night; the final campsites before the summit can reach -15 to -20 degrees Celsius before sunrise. Essential items to pack include hiking boots, layered clothing, a headlamp, sunglasses and sunscreen, trekking poles, water bottles, a first aid kit, snacks, a hat and gloves, and a camera. Always consult your tour operator or guide for personalized advice.
Activities
- Game Drive
- Horse Riding
- Nature Walk
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Nairobi – Maasai Mara National Reserve
Depart Nairobi for Maasai Mara National Reserve and drive for about 4 to 5 hours. You'll have a short stop over at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint before proceeding to Mara via Narok town. Arrive at Maasai Mara and check into your accommodation. Maasai Mara is famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, Big Five, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage. Embark on your first game drive looking out for the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. You'll also see giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs. Dinner and overnight at Orngatuny Mara Camp.
Days 2-4: Maasai Mara
Start with a sunrise game drive. Early hours are prime for spotting predators like lions and leopards. Enjoy breathtaking sunrise over Mara plains. Visit a traditional Maasai village in the afternoon to learn about their customs and participate in activities like beadwork and traditional dances. Head out for another game drive focusing on different areas of the reserve. Enjoy a sundowner, a refreshing drink served in the bush while taking in the stunning views. You can also have an optional hot air balloon safari, which offers a unique perspective of the Mara and its wildlife. You will spend the next days exploring Maasai Mara Reserve.
Day 5: Maasai Mara – Naivasha
Drive to Lake Naivasha and check into your lodge. Lake Naivasha is home to a variety of wildlife including hippos, zebras, giraffes, and numerous bird species. Enjoy an afternoon guided boat ride on the lake looking out for hippos and a variety of bird species. Explore Crescent Island on foot, a rare chance to walk alongside wildlife in a safe environment. You can also visit Hell's Gate National Park if you have time. Dinner and overnight at Elmer Resort.
Day 6: Naivasha – Amboseli National Park
Drive from Naivasha to Amboseli National Park for about 4-5 hours. Arrive and check into your resort. Enjoy an afternoon game drive at the park. Amboseli National Park is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its diverse wildlife which includes large herds of elephants, giraffes, wildebeests, buffaloes, zebras, antelopes, lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The park has recorded over 400 bird species. Dinner and overnight at Amboseli Penety Resort.
Day 7: Amboseli National Park
Spend a full day in Amboseli National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. Visit Observation Hill, a pyramid-shaped hill which provides panoramic views of the park, including swamps and herds of elephants. The hill is ideal for photography and birdwatching. You can also visit the Elephant Research Camp, which provides insights into elephant behavior and conservation efforts. Dinner and overnight at your resort.
Day 8: Amboseli National Park – Aberdare
Depart Amboseli and drive to Aberdare National Park for approximately 5-6 hours. Arrive at Aberdare and check into your lodge, which offers unique wildlife viewing experiences. Go on a game drive to spot elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Explore the park's scenic landscapes, including waterfalls and dense forests. Dinner and overnight at the Tree Tops Lodge.
Day 9: Aberdare – Mount Kenya
Depart from Aberdare to Nanyuki for about 2 to 3 hours. Arrive at Mount Kenya, check in, and have lunch. Proceed for a guided horseback ride through the lush forests and scenic trails around the club. You can choose between one, two, or three-hour rides, carrying with you a picnic box. Head to Naromoru River Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Days 10-11: Ngare Ndare Forest & Loldaiga Hills
After an early breakfast, embark on a hiking activity on Mount Kenya via the Sirimon Route, one of the most popular routes, with stunning views and a variety of landscapes from dense forests to alpine meadows. Proceed to Loldaiga Hills for hiking, with varied trails and a serene, less crowded experience. You will also visit the Ngare Ndare Forest, where a 450-meter-long canopy walk offers a unique perspective of the forest and its wildlife. The forest is also home to waterfalls and natural pools where you can take a refreshing dip. Dinner and overnight at Naromoru River Lodge.
Day 12: Mount Kenya – Nairobi
After breakfast, you'll head back to Nairobi where our driver guide will drop you off at the airport for your flight back home.
What's included?
Included in Your Trip Cost
- Accommodation
- Full Board Meals
- Return Transport
- Professional Tour Guide
- Drinking Water
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- International Flights
- Park Entry Fees
- Tips
- Personal Items
- Self-Sponsored Activities
What Our Guests Say
Our guests review us on independent sites. Read what they say about their safaris with Cherish Africa Safaris:
Request a Free Quote
Tell us your dates and group size — we’ll reply within 24 hours with a tailored quote. No payment needed.
- Free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours
- Tailor-made itineraries for your dates & budget
- Private safari vehicle & expert local guides
- Meet & pick-up in Nairobi, support throughout your trip